Three Months After, No Compensation for Families of Kano Hunters Lynched in Edo

Families of the 16 hunters from Kano State who were lynched by vigilantes in Edo State on March 28, 2025, say they have yet to receive any of the compensation packages promised by the Kano and Edo State governments.

The victims were killed along the Uromi-Obajana Expressway in Esan North-East Local Government Area, Edo State, while returning from Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Mistaken for kidnappers, they were attacked and killed in a mob action that sparked nationwide outrage and calls for justice.

Following the incident, the Nigeria Police arrested 14 individuals in connection with the killings.

In April, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo met with a delegation from Kano State led by Deputy Governor Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo and announced the formation of a federal-state joint investigative committee. During a condolence visit to Torankawa, the victims’ hometown, Governor Okpebholo pledged financial support for affected families, stating:

“We are making arrangements to provide compensation to all the families affected by this incident.”

Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf also promised justice and material support, including food and other relief items.

However, over three months later, affected families say they have not received any compensation or assistance.

Survivors and Families Speak Out

Ibrahim Isa, a survivor of the attack, told Daily Trust that he continues to struggle with physical and emotional trauma, with no help from authorities.

“I can barely feed myself. My children are too young to help. They said they came with money and food, but we haven’t seen anything,” he said, adding that he has spent over ₦40,000 on medical treatment that was promised to be free.

Zahura Haruna, a widow, said her life has become unbearable since the death of her husband.

“I’ve become a burden to my in-laws. My husband was our only provider. Now, we rely on neighbours just to eat.”

Another bereaved parent, Malam Bala Dutse from Kibiya LGA, whose son Amadu was among those killed, demanded transparency:

“They should at least speak to us and explain the compensation plan.”

Hauwa’u Isa, another widow, expressed growing despair:

“They said justice would be served. But each passing day makes that promise look more like a political statement than a commitment.”

Calls for Accountability

Vice Chairman of Kibiya LGA, Nasiru Adam Abdulaziz, reiterated the local council’s commitment to seeking justice:

“These families deserve answers. We trust the government will act as promised.”

Attempts to obtain comments from Edo State officials were unsuccessful. Calls and messages sent to Governor Okpebholo’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, and Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Paul Ohonbamu, went unanswered.

Kano State’s Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Garba Waiya—who is also a member of the investigation committee—declined to comment on the matter.

Alhaji Badamasi Saleh, Chairman of the Hausa community in Edo State, said he had no knowledge of any compensation being disbursed to the families.